Bullying

Workplace Bullying is defined as repeated, unwelcome behaviour directed towards an individual or a group of employees that is intended to degrade, intimidate, humiliate, or undermine; or which creates a risk to the health and safety of the targeted individuals. It can be overt, like shouting and threats, or more subtle, such as spreading malicious rumours or isolating someone from a group.

The intent is to hurt or isolate the person psychologically and, in some cases, physically. Such behaviour, especially when persistent, can create an environment of fear, distrust, and anxiety, ultimately affecting the well-being and performance of employees and the organisation at large.

Examples include:

Verbal abuse, isolation/exclusion, undermining work, manipulation of work role, sabotage, threats and intimidation, intrusion, unreasonable work demands, unwarranted punishment, personal attacks.

This behaviour can have profound and long-lasting effects on individuals and impact on their personal life. It may also have widespread consequences in the workplace.

All incidences of bullying should be investigated for the wellbeing of staff and the organisation.